My CEO 376

376 Life Finally Works (Jayden)

The Nexus jet is smooth and steady as it slices through the clouds, with Viktor sitting across from me, his usual calm demeanor just a touch more relaxed than usual.

I can't help but feel a rush of excitement about the future. Everything is falling into place here in Brussels- the kids are adjusting, Winona seems at ease for the first time in a long time, and the cottage feels like it was made for us.

I can't remember the last time things felt... normal. As If, maybe, this could be our life, no huge shadows from the past ready to crash over us.

"I have to say," I start, turning toward Viktor, "the staff BBQ was perfect."

"agree.

"They all seemed genuinely happy to be there. Now, with the diplomats' welcome party coming up, I can feel like we're... part of something here."

Viktor nods, a hint of a smile on his face. "It's a unique environment," he says. "But it works because you and Winona are making it your own."

"It's starting to feel like home," I admit. "Moving to the cottage is only going to make that even more real. But, you know," I lean back, scratching the back of my neck, "but I hadn't planned to stay long term." "It's a big decision.

"I realize my decisions don't just affect my family. They affect everyone who works for Gus and for Nexus, everyone who's given their lives to make this it all run smoothly."

"Precisely," Viktor says, his voice measured.

"Nexus Global aside, I think moving from the main house will leave some displacement. Just the kitchen staff alone..."

"As much as they're excited to see you all settle into the cottage, there's... an expectation. Many of them assume they'll be moving in along with you."

I glance over, surprised. "To the cottage? We'd never all fit."

Viktor smiles.

"I hadn't thought of that. I mean, it's a house. For my family. Not the army of staff who've been there for... what, decades?"

"Some of them, yes.

people busy? Gus was alone there, but he spent a lot of time away too. What did they

his hands thoughtfully. "But he kept the staff employed

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376 Life Finally Works

see there. The grand ballroom can host many for special events. The gardens

them all on, I need to find something for

roles. There's a respect that goes

at

also a deep loyalty among the staff for each other. They're like a family in their own way. However, if the arrangement no longer works,

A part of me doesn't want to shake things up, they've already sacrificed so much to keep this place running, even when Gus didn't need them. But I can't justify

of using the place as a tourist stop, for events and the gardens. That makes

can understand. The mansion and grounds

do. What's the best way to handle it

moment. "You've already made strides by showing them respect, by involving them in a family gathering and welcoming them to be

"Okay."

opportunities, even if they're not in the mansion." He continues,

through. "You're right. I'll talk to Winona and she can talk to each of them. Decide what we need at the cottage. With us down there, the main

space.

new family to them, Jayden. You're... hope, of a sort. Many

everything. And that family visit we talked about? The kids would love to see your

lights up at the mention. "It would be an honor. They'd be thrilled

smile. "I can find accommodation

new rustic huts almost fitted out. They'll jump at the chance

test run."

+25 BONUS

376 Life Finally Works

very generous and an

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